Equity Bank Uganda has marked another milestone in youth leadership development after commissioning 100 scholars into the fifth cohort of the Equity Leaders Program while also celebrating the graduation of 81 students from the pioneer 2022 cohort.

At African Bible University in Lubowa, excitement and celebration filled the auditorium as 100 top senior six graduates were officially inducted into the fifth cohort of the Equity Leaders Program.

The new scholars now join more than 400 previous beneficiaries under the Equity leadership and mentorship initiative.

The event also celebrated 81 graduates from the pioneer 2022 cohort who have completed university studies in disciplines including engineering, law, statistics, and other professional fields.

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Joanne Korir, the director of operations at Equity Group Foundation, described the program as a transformative initiative equipping young people with practical exposure, leadership skills, and opportunities to contribute to national development.

Equity Group Foundation representative Sam Bwaya urged the scholars to uphold integrity, selflessness, discipline, and excellence as future leaders.

The Executive Director of Equity Bank Uganda, Claver Serumaga, explained that the program combines intensive leadership coaching with practical placements across Equity Bank branches to expose scholars to the corporate environment.

He added that some scholars have secured scholarships at leading international universities, including Harvard and New York University, while others continue receiving mentorship and career guidance through the University Chapter program in Uganda.

Catherine Psomgen, director of public sector and social investment at Equity Bank Uganda, said the program intentionally targets top-performing students from districts where the bank operates, with the aim of nurturing transformative leaders.

The Chief Guest, Patrick Muinda, Commissioner for Library, E-Learning, and Information Technology at the Ministry of Education and Sports, commended Equity Bank for investing in youth mentorship and leadership development.

He encouraged scholars to remain disciplined, protect their character, and pursue sustainable growth.

Over the past five years, the Equity Leaders Program has supported more than 500 young Ugandans through leadership training, mentorship, financial literacy, and practical experience, helping bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world impact.